We all suffer in greater and lesser degrees from the coronavirus pandemic. Living in unknown territory has never been pleasant, even for the most fearless of us.
We like certainty, predictability, routines, structure — all of which provide a sense of control and efficacy in our daily lives.
But THIS, this unseen silent hidden virus, which continues to show up just when things seem stable, this presents one of the planet’s greatest challenges. At least in wartime the enemy could be seen and identified.
The unseen brings another layer of trauma, as if one were blindfolded, whacking away at a Mexican piñata; one thing we know for sure, it will not be pouring out packets of candy.
People are on edge. They don’t like what they can’t control. There are infinite lessons in this climate of the unseen and the unknown.
While Covid-19 is a real daily threat, somehow someway we are going to learn to live in this reality, for having the illusion it will disappear any time soon is just that, an illusion.
This is not meant to scare or disillusion anyone, or fuel loss of hope. On the contrary, facing tough realities head-on can provide some security or at least some clarity on how to cope during uncertain times.
So if this is not going away, the questions of how to live, how to interact, how to get on with things become even more important than usual.
Countries around the world have all taken a variety of approaches to cope with daily life. Some more stringent than others, particularly of late as the second wave arrives.
Covid-19 appears to operate in peaks and valleys across the globe. Lockdown proved helpful for many, while other countries such as Sweden said no to lockdown and relied on “common sense” from its citizens when it came to mask-wearing and social distancing.
How to think and feel about varying coping methods can be confusing. Wearing masks, not wearing masks, gathering 6 feet apart (some now say 10 feet).
Living in a socially disconnected time remains sad and painful. We are social creatures by nature, by birth.
We love our friends and some family members! We so miss the functions we are used to attending — our churches, concert venues, shopping malls and more, many of which have been furloughed for how long we are not sure.
One thing that seems critical to value and embrace is the great outdoors. Breathe in and take advantage of the air and nature all around. It seems universally agreed upon is that Covid doesn’t do too well outside. Take advantage.
Meet in small gatherings as permitted by your state. Zoom sessions may be a good stopgap but nothing compares with being in the presence of one another. So set up in your back yard with reasonable guidelines and take advantage of neighborly conversations or meetings on the porch. If you never have had a rocking chair on your deck porch or back yard, consider purchasing one. They are relaxing and offer a pleasant way to commune with family and friends.
Reviving work-out rituals for you and your family is a great way to escape the doldrums. Exercise is a vital way to beat back depression. Twenty minutes four times a week makes all the difference, and for some the more the better.
If you don’t like working out, simply get out and walk around your neighborhood (masks, please) or purchase a bicycle and try out all the bike paths that are being improved upon and created. Whatever interests you, remember to stick to a daily routine. Over time you will see results and be glad you put in the effort.
Anyone with a patio or a back garden would be well advised to break out the hibachi or barbecue for a few family meals. Small fire pits have become quite popular and provide plenty of heat to sit around while sharing dinner and a glass of something good to drink.
Consider a small gathering of friends and family. Make sure those invited over are healthy. (Temp checks are recommended and no indication of anything personal, simply another new normal.)
Don’t let social distancing become social isolating. The idea of social distancing is an oxymoron. Either being social OR being distant but you can’t be both. What you can be, however, is socially sensitive.
If someone at a gathering prefers to wear a mask, allow him or her his or her preference. It has nothing to do with you; it is simply a personal protective measure. Introducing shame to a situation is simply that, allow people during this time to have their own comfort levels when interacting, at this time is not unreasonable. Wearing a mask is not a sign of weakness, it is a personal choice, one recommended and sometimes mandated by the government.
If you don’t want to socialize with people who are wearing masks, then don’t; simply allow each individual his or her preferences and muster some empathy.
Understanding that everyone has fears in these uncertain times will go a long way. Be flexible, for we are in a world we have never seen before.
Offer solace, kindness, understanding and humor. Bring comfort. Provide a refuge from solitary thinking and isolating.
We are in this unusual wartime together — for the long haul.
> More coronavirus help: “What to tell the children”
Photo by A Syed